Chapter 2 Waking up to reality
787 Words
Aria's pov
I tossed and turned in bed because I couldn't sleep. It felt like night would never end. I couldn't calm my thoughts and my mind was racing. Every time I closed my eyes, all I got to see was his expressionless face, looking at me like I was already his.
By morning, I felt very sad. I wished my mum was alive to fight for me.
And the hardest part.? No one came to say it was all a mix-up, or some sick prank. Which confirmed it was the truth.
“Get up and get ready.” The door was pushed open before I could blink. Emma, my stepmother, was standing before me, arms wrapped tight, unfazed, dressed like she was attending a party instead of ruining someone’s life. “We’re going to Mr. Liam’s house.”
I flickered. “Why?” Her mouth curled into a wicked smile. “To go meet the cripple you're getting married to, of course. You are signing the marriage contract today.”
The words made me tremble. “But i didn't consent to marrying him! Besides, I have Ethan, I love him and i won’t betray him.”
Smack!
My cheek flushed with pain, this was the second time she's slapped me after i became an adult “You got no choice,” her voice was cold as stone, “and don’t even think about refusing. Seeing as this family is indebted to him.” I shook my head, trying to steady my voice. “ But I didn’t even do anything! Why should I be the one to give up my happiness? Sophia did! Why should I pay for her mistake?” Her gaze blazed.
“Because,” she said evenly, “ you're his prime suspect.” The door swung open quietly.
“Aria…?” Sophia’s voice seeped in, overly gentle
I didn’t glance up right away. That tone, it was the same one people used at funerals… or when they were putting on a show .
“I heard you weren’t feeling down,” she said, walking in with a small tray. “So I brought you something.”
I grasped the bedsheet tightly. Since when did she start to care? I turned to look at her. Sophia stood there in soft colors, her hair perfect, her face full of concern. In her hands a cup of tea.
“I made it myself,” she said with a faint smile. “You’ve been through so much since yesterday… marrying him and all.”
That pause,that slight emphasis. I noticed it.
“You can drop the act. I can see right through you, Sophia,” I said quietly. A flicker crossed her face. Just for a second. Then it vanished.
“I don’t understand what you're talking about,” she replied, drawing closer and setting the tray down. “We’re family. I care about you.” Family? The same family that handed me over as a substitute. My eyes dropped to the tea. Vapour curled into the air.
“Sip it while it’s still hot,” Sophia whispered. “It’ll help you calm down.”
I didn’t move. Instead, I asked, “Are you happy?”
Sophia blinked. “Happy?”
“I am. At least your boyfriend will finally notice my beauty once you’re married to that cripple,” she whispered, stepping closer. “After today, you will become Mr. Liam’s wife, you won’t stand a chance against me again.” She smiled. My hands tightened into a fist. I let out a gentle laugh. “Oh, Aria…” she said, sitting on the edge of the bed. Her hand reached out, brushing invisible dust from my sleeve. “I didn’t lose anything.” Her voice dropped just slightly.
“You took my place for twenty years while I lived as your shadow.” Her words were soft… but they cut deep. My heart skipped as she drew closer, her grin stayed , her eyes turned cold. “So ,” she murmured, “at least all you can do is keep him happy… right?” Then she pulled back, her gentle expression returning.
“Drink your tea,” she said sweetly, standing up. “You’ll need your strength. I hear he’s heartless.” She walked to the door… then paused. “Oh, and Aria?” She looked back. “If something goes wrong with him…” Her grin grew slightly. I will make sure you take the blame. You understand me, right?”
The door clicked shut. I froze. “…What?”
- Writer
